Get the Party Started with Def Jam Rapstar

There are plenty of video games that appeal to the musically inclined but for those interested in the hip hop genre, there's has been a serious void. Until now that it is.Def Jam Rapstar was announced earlier this month and will be available on all major platforms (Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 for $60 and Wii for $50). The game allows for an interactive hip-hop singing experience coupled with social networking. If you remember, a while back, in my blog on video game trends, I pointed out that social networking and user-generated content were both going to be growing trends in the video game market.

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I had the opportunity to sample the game, and if you're familiar with my singing capabilities, you'll be happy to hear that I was just a spectator. The game is similar to the likes of Dance Dance Revolution and karaoke games on the market, where you try to recreate what you are viewing on the screen and get points for reproducing properly. You sing the words that are on the screen and are scored based on your lyrical accuracy, timing, and tone. So even if you sing every word wrong, if you're humming the right rhythm you get points! The game has a catalog of over 40 of the top hip hop tracks, from oldies to current hits. If you have a newer console with a camera, you can record yourself singing and then customize your video afterwards using in-game editing tools. You can then upload the video to the online communityand either share on other social networks or "battle" against others on the site.

I think that the online social component will be particularly successful, especially for those trying to break in to the hip hop world. Once your video is posted - either of rapping freestyle with original content or over licensed track, it is unleashed to the public. You can then either challenge individuals or accept invitations to battles, in which online users rate whom they think performed better. You can also establish crews with other players or rivalries - just as is customary in the real rap world. While unfortunately I have no chance of ever breaking out in to the hip hop scene, if that's your goal this game may provide the opportunity, or at the very least help you hone your skills.

If this game doesn't appeal to you or your kids, no need to fret. The video game market is filled with options whether you're looking for educational value or just entertainment. Before you buy a game for your children, make sure the game is suitable by reading our guide to choosing video games for kids.